ABOUT

Artist Statement

I grew up researching history, drawing ancient symbols and decaying statues in my sketchbook, it was my first discipline. I loved archeology. My first introduction to history was a set of books my father gave me about ancient Mesopotamia. I learned early that mastery does not just come from minimal effort it comes from showing up; consistency and working hard.

I could research for hours in the pursuit of something just beyond my reach. That same discipline now lives in my art studio. 

Every morning, I show up to paint the way I did for my research, with focus. Painting for me is the intersection of concentrated imagination and sounds like a plan. Everyday day I learn something new.

The years of examining history taught me to stay with the process long enough for something meaningful to emerge.

I strive for my art to have a grounded calming effect. I use repetition, layering and organic rhythm I create a biophilic environment, a sanctuary that embodies nature. 

BIO

Cecilia (Bahena) Chenault was born in Santa Maria, California. Her first adventure into art began at the age of four when she created her first mud sculpture of an old oak tree. On the coast of California she spent her childhood in libraries reading art and history books, playing for endless hours at the old missions. She was amazed by the art of the indigenous artists. 

In 1976 she moved to Oahu, Hawaii to live with her father. She was soon emerged in Hawaiian culture and music. Her time as a teenager on the North Shore and the freedom she found inspired her to become an artist and she began painting murals for local businesses. As a young adult she had the honor of learning figure drawing at the Foss School of Art in Honolulu with visiting artist Daniel E. Green and other prolific artists. 

Cecilia moved to the island of Maui in 1984 and learned Renaissance portrait drawing and painting from Yoshiko Fujita. In the 90’s she began Plein Air landscape painting with a local group of artists. Immediately, she began teaching classes for adults and children, entering shows, winning awards and eventually opened her own gallery in Wailuku, HI.

Oil paint is her preferred medium but she also paints in acrylic.  Nature has always been an ongoing theme in her work. Her artwork has found homes across the country and internationally. 

Cecilia is the President of Art Maui a non-profit which started in 1979 and the Maui Open Studios an island wide art studio event. She is a member of the American Impressionist Society, NOAPS, Oil Painters of America and American Women Artists.